Can I undo an import if I'm not satisfied with the results or if it causes issues with my account?
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Mistakes happen, especially when migrating data from other services. Whether you imported the wrong file, misaligned columns, or simply want to try a different data set, Simkl provides mechanisms to safely revert your import. This ensures your profile stays organized and accurate without the tedium of manually deleting each entry.
When importing large amounts of data (via CSV, JSON, or other methods), it’s possible that mistakes or mismatches occur—duplicate entries, incorrect titles, or unintended ratings. Simkl offers tools to revert or clean your watch history so you can start fresh without manual deletions.
Simkl provides an option to clean your watch history to zero using https://simkl.com/settings/login/clean-or-delete/
To be on the safe side make sure to create backups using https://simkl.com/apps/backup/ before importing any data. So you can restart as if nothing happened if you mess up the import.
Why? Creating a backup allows you to restore your watch history, ratings, and other settings exactly as they were before the import, saving time and preventing data loss.
Navigate to Backup Page
Bookmark this URL for quick future access.
Select Backup Type Method
Includes your entire anime, movie, and TV watch history.
Backup via Gdrive, Zip (Instant Download), CSV File backup
Download Your Backup
Click Generate Backup.
After processing, click Download to save the JSON backup file to your local device.
Store Safely
Rename the file with a clear date label (e.g., Simkl_Backup_2035-07-15.json).
Keep it in a secure folder or cloud storage for easy retrieval.
What It Does: This feature wipes your entire watch history, effectively resetting your profile to zero entries. Use this when an import introduces a large number of unwanted items.
Access Clean Settings
You may need to log in if you’re not already authenticated.
Choose Clean Action
Clean Watch History: Resets all anime, movies, and TV show progress to zero.
Delete Account (Optional): Permanently removes your account and all associated data. Warning: This is irreversible.
Confirm Your Choice
Read the warning messages carefully.
To clean history, click Clean Watch History.
Simkl will prompt you to confirm—type “YES” or click the final Confirm button.
Wait for Processing
Simkl clears your data—this can take a few moments if you have extensive history.
Once complete, you’ll see a success message and your watch lists will be empty.
Why Restore? After cleaning your history, you can repopulate your data with a previously saved backup, restoring all entries exactly as they were.
Return to Backup Page
Upload Your Backup File
Click Choose File and select the JSON backup file you downloaded earlier.
Start the Restore Process
Click Upload and start import.
Simkl uploads and processes the backup, re-adding all your entries, ratings, and notes.
Verify Restoration
After completion, navigate to your Anime, Movies, and TV tabs.
Check that your history matches the state prior to the import.
With Simkl’s backup and clean features, you can confidently import new data without fear of permanent mistakes. Always back up before major changes, and if needed, clean your history and restore from the saved backup.
This two-step approach ensures your account remains accurate and organized, letting you focus on tracking your favorite shows and movies.
